Honoring Past And Present Leaders

Amanda Corby

By Amanda Corby, John Kelly Environmental Achievement Awards chairwoman

John Kelly was widely known for two things: surfing and saving surf breaks. His ocean-based environmental activist group Save Our Surf fought to prevent offshore development in the Islands that would have destroyed limited ocean resources, surf sites and reefs. Kelly and SOS helped save more than 140 surf sites and stop many destructive developments.

Following in his wake, Surfrider Foundation’s Oahu Chapter has worked with other organizations to help preserve Pupukea-Paumalu, Kakaako Park and Waimea Valley. On Nov. 17, the chapter will celebrate Kelly and future environmental leaders at the 10th anniversary of the John Kelly Environmental Achievement Awards at Waimea Valley. Over the past 10 years the celebration has honored acclaimed environmental stewards such as Mark Cunningham, Peter Cole and Jack Johnson.

This year’s awardees include Muumuu Heaven, pro surfer Torrey Meister and Capt. Charles Moore.

Jack Johnson serenades guests at the 2011 John Kelly Environmental Awards event
Photo courtesy of Surfrider Foundation

Muumuu Heaven is being awarded in the Hawaii-based company category for its leadership in the community and its advocacy work for Hawaii on an international level. The shop’s designs are created with the purpose of minimizing the impact on the environment while maximizing their fashion-forward thinking.

Torrey Meister, also known as the “Happy Hawaiian,” is an explosive surfer whose positive attitude shines through in his surfing as well as his demeanor on land. He is one of the Islands’ top surfers. As an active advocate for the Surfrider Foundation, Torrey promotes environmental awareness and appeared in a PSA supporting Surfrider’s Rise Above Plastics campaign.

Last but certainly not least, the event will honor Capt. Charles Moore, an environmental researcher and dynamic speaker who is best known for bringing the North Pacific Garbage Patch to the world’s attention. Moore founded the Algalita Marine Research Foundation in 1994 and then launched a research vessel and began voyages across the Pacific to document the rise of marine plastic pollution.

The awards dinner also will feature live music from local favorites The Intire Project and special guests The Paul Carlon Quartet from New York City.

All proceeds from this evening will benefit Surfrider Foundation’s Oahu Chapter and its efforts to preserve our coasts.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit surfrider.org/oahu or call 240-1096.